Aberdeen City Region Deal - weekly progress update 22 February 2016

Agreement with the UK and Scottish Government on the City Region Deal has paved the way for massive investment in innovation, digital connectivity and infrastructure across the region.

The City Region Deal partners, Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Councils and Opportunity North East (ONE), representing the private sector, are delighted with the outcome.

To govern the City Region Deal, a joint committee has been established which includes 3 members of Aberdeenshire Council, 3 members of Aberdeen City Council, and 3 members of ONE. The first meeting of this influential group will take place on Wednesday, 24 February.

The team behind the negotiation of the deal is now working on the detail of projects designed to create a better economic and social environment for the north east and benefit the nation as a whole.

Proposals include plans to consolidate the region’s position in the international oil and gas industry. A new Oil & Gas Technology Centre will support Aberdeen in making the transition from an operations base to a global centre for technology. This will in turn help anchor the oil and gas supply chain here as a major success story for the Scottish and UK economies now and in the years to come.

The investment in innovation for biopharmaceuticals, agri-food and drink will build on the existing strengths in these sectors, helping to broaden our economy.

Digital connectivity, supporting the Aberdeen Harbour Nigg expansion, investment in housing and transport will also all play an important role in supporting and growing the economy.

We welcome your continued support and interest in Aberdeen City Region Deal matters. With our focus now very much on the delivery of projects, we remain committed to keeping you informed of developments and the timescales associated with these. As such, the frequency of bulletins will alter to reflect the pace of work and the attainment of milestones.